According to a report by BBC Sport on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Jude Bellingham was instrumental in Real Madrid's thrilling 3-2 Champions League victory against AEK Athens, delivering an impressive display that included a superb equalising goal.

The English midfielder demonstrated his importance to the Spanish giants by contributing significantly to their attacking play and helping them recover from an early deficit to claim a dramatic victory.

Real Madrid entered the encounter looking to dominate proceedings, but the hosts took an unexpected lead in the 12th minute when Aboubakary Koita found the back of the net.

The goal exposed Madrid's defensive problems and forced the visitors to increase their attacking efforts. Bellingham had already attempted to get his team back into the contest in the 11th minute with a powerful strike from distance, but the opposition defence successfully blocked his effort.

The 22-year-old eventually got on the scoresheet in the 32nd minute, producing an outstanding back-heel finish after a well-coordinated attacking move involving Marc Cucurella. His goal brought Madrid level at 1-1 and highlighted his excellent awareness and technical ability in front of goal.

Bellingham remained influential throughout the second half, using his movement and midfield creativity to help Madrid maintain pressure on their opponents.

He came close to adding another goal in the 69th minute when he attempted a shot from distance, although the effort went wide.

Despite Madrid's efforts, AEK Athens moved ahead again in the 75th minute through Stavro Pilo, leaving the visitors with another challenge to overcome.

However, Kylian Mbappe responded three minutes later, converting a precise pass from Denzel Dumfries to restore parity and give Real Madrid renewed hope of securing victory.

The Spanish side completed their comeback in the 90+2nd minute when Federico Valverde scored a stunning late winner after being set up by Brahim Diaz.

Bellingham had already been substituted in the 86th minute, but his contribution earlier in the encounter played a major part in Madrid's success.

His excellent equaliser, creativity and influence in midfield earned him the Man of the Match award despite not remaining on the pitch until the final whistle.